Xu only back-paid the employee and admitted her
contraventions after the matter was put before the
court.

The Fair Work Ombudsman presented evidence in court that
Grandcity employees were under constant video surveillance and were
discouraged from raising concerns about their
employment.

An email sent to all Grandcity employees in 2013 advised
that they could be easily replaced and stated that "the boss pays
you to do the work and not to negotiate any work terms and
conditions".

Handing down his decision, Judge John O'Sullivan noted
that employees of other Grandcity agencies run by Xu had previously
complained about underpayment of wages and sham
contracting.

Judge O'Sullivan found that Xu and Grandcity had
deliberately exploited a vulnerable employee.

He found that the previous interaction with the Fair Work
Ombudsman should have left Xu well aware of her
obligations.

"The respondents have demonstrated a complete disregard
for the minimum standards contained in the Fair Work Act and (Xu's)
personal interpretation of minimum standards under workplace laws
as 'just crazy' reinforces the need to demonstrate that compliance
with minimum standards is not optional, it's the law," Judge
O'Sullivan said.

"I am not satisfied she has shown remorse. There is no
evidence she has taken steps to ensure that no further breaches
will occur. I also accept there is also a need for general
deterrence and to ensure employers understand the consequences of
seeking to avoid obligations under the Fair Work Act."